How Museveni’s Most Trusted Minister Built a Business Empire in the Shadows

Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, commonly known as Balaam, has been a prominent figure in Uganda's business and political spheres.

Born on July 28, 1979, in Mbarara, Uganda, Balaam's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a trusted minister under President Yoweri Museveni is both inspiring and instructive.

Balaam was born to the late Engineer David Balaam Byenkya Akiiki of Kijura, Masindi District, and Gladesi Byenkya Abwooli of Kalisizo in Central Buganda. He lost his father in 1991, a pivotal moment that likely influenced his resilience and determination.

He attended Namasagali School, St. John Bosco Senior Secondary School, and Original Progressive Senior Secondary School for his A-levels.

He later enrolled at Makerere University, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree, majoring in Marketing. Balaam furthered his education with a Master of Business Administration from Cavendish University Uganda.

Balaam's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the Balaam Group of Companies, a conglomerate with diverse interests across Uganda and South Sudan. His investments span various sectors, including entertainment, broadcasting, real estate, manufacturing, and hospitality.

Notably, he is the proprietor of Original Best Water Company and Radio One in South Sudan, which he launched in 2009 as the first privately-owned media house in the country. In Uganda, his media ventures include Radio 4, Radio 7 in Masindi, and Radio 8 in both the Masaka and Elgon regions.

His real estate portfolio boasts hotels in Kampala and South Sudan, with a five-star hotel in Masindi inaugurated by President Museveni in September 2022.

Balaam's dedication and business acumen did not go unnoticed in political circles. On March 21, 2024, President Museveni appointed him as the State Minister for Gender, Labour, and Social Development, specifically overseeing children and youth affairs. This appointment underscores the trust and confidence the president places in Balaam's capabilities.

Beyond his business and political endeavors, Balaam is known for his philanthropic activities, particularly in supporting artists and vulnerable communities.

He is a father to four children: Benta Karuhanga Abwooli, Biden Kamusiime Amooti, Brennan Kamukama Akiiki, and Bennette Tumusiime Amooti.

In 2013, he faced the tragic loss of his first son to cancer, a personal hardship that has further fueled his commitment to community support and development.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balaam_Barugahara?